tag:www.marilynbelewlaw.com,2013-03-21:/blog/834582019-01-11T20:13:20ZMovable Type Enterprisetag:www.marilynbelewlaw.com,2019:/blog//83458.35789672019-01-15T20:15:00Z2019-01-11T20:13:20Z
Earlier this month, Louisiana became the fifth state to adopt "granny cam" laws in skilled nursing facilities. It follows similar laws in Illinois, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Washington and Texas.

After the influx of reports of elder abuse in recent years, guardians and other family members have sought a way to increase protection and accountability for their loved ones. Data suggests around 5 million residents suffer abuse in nursing homes each year.

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Additionally, as many as 25 percent of nursing home residents across the United States will experience will experience abuse in a nursing home. Tragically, many of these instances go unreported. Guardians across the country believe granny cams might be the solution to protect their loved ones.

Granny cams are intended to keep a continuous recording in a resident's individual room. Because of privacy regulations, they cannot be used without the consent of a resident or his or her guardian. If a resident or guardian wishes to have a camera in the room, they must request it from the facility.

Skilled nursing facilities cannot "retaliate" against a resident or guardian for requesting or using one of the legal recording devices. Additionally, federal and state laws require skilled nursing homes to adhere to regulations regarding the care of residents. As a guardian, it is important to ensure the nursing home is fulfilling its duties under the law.

Guardianship provides you the ability to make personal decisions for a loved one that could affect his or her life in a positive way. If you have any questions about establishing guardianship, consult with an experienced legal professional today.

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tag:www.marilynbelewlaw.com,2019:/blog//83458.35724862019-01-10T19:00:00Z2019-01-08T19:01:29Z
Most Decatur adults love that they still have their parents, grandparents or possibly even great-grandparents around. Numerous people lose their elderly loved ones at young ages, and such a loss can be difficult at any age. Of course, adults also know that older individuals can begin to experience difficulties handling their own affairs, and it may put them at risk. In some cases, seeking guardianships may be necessary.

It is an unfortunate reality that elder abuse takes place at a disturbing rate. In addition to facing physical abuse and neglect, many individuals are also taken advantage of financially. Because mental decline often affects elderly people, it is possible for these individuals to make financial decisions that can cause significant harm without realizing what they have done.

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The U.S. Administration on Aging reported that approximately one million elderly people face abuse and exploitation every year. In some instances, the elderly may know that something is going wrong, but they may no longer have the ability to express their fears or concerns or may fear retaliation from their abusers. When it comes to financial exploitation, the losses could result from fraudulent schemes or even from once-trusted individuals who improperly use funds.

For Decatur residents who want to protect their loved ones from abuse and exploitation, seeking guardianships may be an option to consider. This step is often beneficial when elderly or otherwise incapacitated individuals can no longer effectively handle their affairs but have not appointed someone to take over. Pursuing the role of guardian is not easy and can be emotionally taxing, especially if the loved one is opposed to the idea. Still, it may be in the best interests of the at-risk person.